Sunday, June 13, 2010

national pride

Even the plants bloom in the colours of the Dutch flag, the "roodwitblau". The Dutch are understated in their patriotism, yet still very proud of their country. This afternoon, us three girls caught the last part of a Tatoo in the Grote Markt of Haarlem, and the marching bands played beautifully. To close the program they played the national anthem, and every single person stood up, many put their hand over their heart, and they all sang this beautiful anthem. I didn't know the words, but as I gazed through the crowd, my eyes filled with tears and my heart with love for this people whose love for their nation could so move me.